Red wine substitutes
Red wine substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Beef broth
Same amount as the red wine
Rich, savory liquid with similar depth of flavor.
The best substitutes for red wine are beef broth, grape juice, or non-alcoholic wine, depending on the use.
Red wine brings a deep fruity, slightly tannic flavour, a tartness that cuts through rich meat, and the dark red colour that makes a braise or a poached pear look the way it should - and it is part of the liquid in the pot. A savoury broth covers the liquid but leaves the dish flat and brown; a red juice covers the colour but is sweet rather than tart.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
- Jobs
- Moisture & hydrationsecondary
- Acidsecondary
- Aroma & flavor identityprimary
- Browning & colorsecondary
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of red wine | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Beef brothcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Grape juicecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Non-alcoholic winecooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Balsamic vinegar + watercooking | ½ cup balsamic vinegar + ½ cup water per 1 cup red wineTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Cranberry juicecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Pomegranate juicecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Beef broth
different taste, similar texture
Rich, savory liquid with similar depth of flavor.
- Covers
- Moisture & hydration
- Misses
- Acid — not covered
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Browning & color — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, stews
No alcohol content, adds umami flavor.
Grape juice
different taste, similar texture
Non-alcoholic grape juice with similar flavor.
- Covers
- Moisture & hydration
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Browning & color
- Misses
- Acid — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, stews
No alcohol content, sweeter than wine.
Non-alcoholic wine
similar taste and texture
Dealcoholized wine with similar flavor profile.
- Covers
- Moisture & hydration
- Acid
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Browning & color
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, stews
Similar flavor, no alcohol content.
Balsamic vinegar + water
different taste, similar texture
Tangy alternative with similar acidity.
- Covers
- Moisture & hydration
- Acid
- Browning & color
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, stews
More acidic, adjust sweetness.
Cranberry juice
different taste, similar texture
Tart, red juice with similar color.
- Covers
- Moisture & hydration
- Acid
- Browning & color
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, stews
More tart, no alcohol content.
Pomegranate juice
different taste, similar texture
Tart, red juice with similar color and acidity.
- Covers
- Moisture & hydration
- Acid
- Browning & color
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, stews
More tart, no alcohol content.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use beef broth instead of red wine?
Yes, beef broth is a good substitute for red wine in cooking. It adds similar depth of flavor and umami, though it won't have the same acidity or fruitiness.
What's the difference between red wine and white wine in cooking?
Red wine is typically used with red meats and hearty dishes, while white wine is used with lighter proteins like fish and chicken. Red wine adds more body and tannins to dishes.
Can I use grape juice instead of red wine?
Yes, grape juice can work as a substitute, though it's sweeter than wine and lacks the acidity. You may need to adjust other ingredients in your recipe.
Why is red wine so popular in French cooking?
Red wine is popular in French cooking because it adds depth, complexity, and acidity to dishes. It's also a traditional ingredient in many classic French sauces and stews.
Tips for substituting red wine
6 tips- Red wine adds depth and complexity to dishes
- Red wine pairs well with beef, lamb, and game
- Red wine can be used in marinades, sauces, and stews
- Red wine can be used to deglaze pans and create flavorful sauces
- Red wine can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Store red wine in a cool, dark place